Cost of Attendance is the total amount of aid, including scholarships, grants and loans, that you are eligible to receive for the entire year. The Cost of Attendance is derived based on living expenses in the Winston-Salem area and information from student surveys.

The amount provided each year allows a student to live comfortably alone, not luxuriously. Cutting costs in any way, including getting a roommate, budgeting money for food and other expenses, and living as frugally as possible are recommended.

It is not required that you accept the full Cost of Attendance each year. The amount you accept is flexible. You are allowed to return funds if you accept too much or request more if you run short, as long as you stay within the Cost of Attendance.

The Cost of Attendance varies for each class based on the number of months the student is considered enrolled and the types of expenses incurred throughout the year.

How do I manage this money?

The Office of Student Financial Planning is available to meet with you one-on-one to talk about managing these disbursements. Due to the strict amount allowed for each year, it is important that you have a spending plan.

There are many creative ways to manage these funds; for example, you might pay rent for the entire semester when you receive your first disbursement and again in November. Another way to make your money last is to deposit your disbursement into a savings account and "pay" yourself monthly or bi-monthly.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.